Rice Paper Wraps

My friend Brianna and I love to try new foods, so when I found this recipe on Food Network’s website, I knew she was just the person to try it with. We not only found this recipe to be delicious, but really fun to make too. (Note: We didn’t actually make the dipping sauce, but instead used a store bought Asian dipping sauce.) If you have kids who are willing to try different foods, I highly recommend letting them in on the cooking process.

Directions

In a large bowl filled with warm water, soak 1 rice paper wrapper for about 20 seconds or until soft.

Lay wrapper out on a tea towel to absorb excess water. Transfer wrapper to a flat surface. About 1/3 from the bottom of the wrapper, create a 3-inch long row by placing some cilantro leaves followed by some red pepper, yellow pepper, snow peas, mushrooms, bean sprouts, buckwheat noodles and a little ginger.

Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the top 1/3 of the rice wrapper with black sesame seeds. Carefully fold the bottom of the rice paper wrapper over the vegetables. Turn in the sides and continue rolling up from the bottom.

To serve, slice the roll in half on a bias. Serve with Orange-Chili Dipping Sauce.

*Cook’s Note: Rice paper wrappers can be found in Asian markets and at gourmet stores. Soak and work with only 1 rice wrapper at a time because wrappers will stick together and won’t be easy to work with if they absorb too much water. If not served right away, keep rolls tightly covered to prevent the rice wrappers from drying out.